Mahindra Scorpio Review

The Mahindra Scorpio is a SUV that requires no introduction as this icon of sorts was a big turning point for Mahindra when it was first launched. After the Scorpio Mahindra launched many products and in recent years the XUV500 has taken giant leaps for styling, features and vehicle dynamics. The Scorpio has also been updated and improved over the years but due to new competition like Renault Duster it was time for Mahindra to make some big changes and that is what they have done with the new generation Scorpio. An all new platform including new suspension, gearbox plus new anti-roll tech promises to alter the driving manners of this SUV. Plus there are many more changes so read on.

Powertrain & Performance

While the new Scorpio might be sporting a new look the biggest change over its predecessor is the new platform which frankly changes the biggest weakness of the previous Scorpio. Granted this new platform has not made it a brilliant handler but without doubt there is a vast improvement in the way it drives. The new suspension and anti-roll technology reduce body roll by the bucketloads and the new Scorpio is now much more stable at high speeds. The mHawk engine with 118 bhp and 280 Nm of torque continues while the S2 base variant gets the M2diCR engine.

This engine still has the previous traits carried over in terms of strong performance at low revs and the engine getting a bit noisy when you pile on the speeds. However in cabin noise is now less and the new 5-speed manual while not slick does a decent job. The generous torque makes the new Scorpio a great cruiser and with the new found agility we easily coaxed more than 150 kmph in the new Scorpio and you can cruise at high speeds all day. The much better ride and steering only makes things better and overall the new Scorpio is much easier to drive and live with. The new Scorpio also has a 4x4 variant with shift on fly awd. Mileage has also been improved with 15.3 kmpl.

Build & Styling

From the front you will see the new styling which we think makes the new Scorpio much better looking while still retaining the butch stance. Mahindra knows what an icon the Scorpio is and thus did not mess with the shape as much so from the side and from the rear it's still the good old Scorpio but with a twist. The front-end now looks meaner with the new grille (with chrome accents), dual projector headlamps with those signature LED 'eye brows' which are parking lights, new fog lamps and new bonnet scoop. From the side you will new 17 inch alloys while the rear gets new LED tail-lamps and the 2 tone rear applique. While we like the front the rear is a bit overdone. The new Scorpio gets 5 colours with new red and blue colour.

Inside you will be surprised even more. Gone is the dated cabin replaced by a much more modern design and build quality has now gone up too (though far from class best). The new blue-grey combo looks good with the smartly designed centre-console. Elsewhere the power window switches have been moved to the doors and we like the new steering wheel. Space wise it is still same as before with more than enough legroom/headroom in the first/second row. Luggage space is also good. When it comes to features there is a 6 inch touch screen which controls your audio plus has navigation, Bluetooth, CD/DVD/USB/Aux. You also have automatic temperature control, steering controls, tyre pressure monitoring, reverse parking sensors, cruise control, auto headlamps/wipers and voice assist system. When it comes to safety the new Scorpio has dual front airbags, ABS.

Verdict

The new Mahindra Scorpio takes a giant leap and is a much improved car than before. More than the styling changes to us the new interior and better dynamics summarise the change the new Scorpio has. Of course there is still some improvement required in some areas but Mahindra have nearly made the Scorpio the perfect SUV for the price-bracket it operates in. Available in seven variants the new Scorpio is value for money for sure and it will continue to be the favourite for SUV lovers.

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